Record Greenhouse Gas Levels in 2023

In 2023, greenhouse gases reached record-high levels, with CO2 at 420 ppm, CH4 at 1934 ppb, and N2O at 336.9 ppb. This rise, driven by fossil fuel emissions, reduced carbon absorption, and fires, threatens the Paris Agreement's climate goals. The WMO underscores that these gases, especially CO2, have long-lasting warming effects, as evidenced by a 51.5% increase in radiative forcing since 1990. Comparable conditions occurred millions of years ago when temperatures and sea levels were significantly higher. Without immediate action, the impacts of these emissions will persist for decades.